"I love working with children and my confidence has grown tenfold"

Training as a school counsellor has helped to boost Nikki’s confidence and feel that she is making a real difference to the children she is working with and supporting.

"When I was only 18, I was struggling to decide what I wanted to do with my life. I discovered counselling, and completed a college course, and that’s when I found out about Place2Be.

"I loved the idea of working with children and I applied to be a Volunteer Counsellor. This was a huge step for me. I've always struggled with my confidence, so putting myself out there took a lot of courage and preparation. But I've also always been a great believer in trusting your gut instinct – and this just felt right.

"After volunteering for Place2Be for five years, I became an Assistant School Project Manager. In this role I am involved with a lot of work with children, including around 15 counselling sessions a week across two schools. I also help run Place2Talk which is the lunchtime service open to all pupils.

"What I love most about my job is the children, and what the role has done to me as a person. Walking around school and the playground and having children approach me is so rewarding. I really feel like I really do make a difference no matter how big or small that might be.

"The four School Project Managers I have had the pleasure of working alongside have been amazing and so supportive. Knowing they are always there for me gives me a daily boost to carry on challenging myself, learning and growing.

"Since training with Place2Be, my confidence has increased tenfold and my experience is ever growing. I hardly recognise the girl I used to be!"

This blog was written by Nikki, Assistant Project Manager at Place2Be in a personal capacity and does not necessarily reflect the view of the organisation.